Nova Scotia power lines imperil snowmobilers

TRURO, Nova Scotia – Deep snow is putting all-terrain vehicle and snowmobile drivers close to power lines this winter.

“This year’s snowfall has resulted in snow drifts as high as 25 feet in some areas of Nova Scotia,” Denise Corra, spokeswoman for Nova Scotia Power, said Monday.

“Power distribution lines run as low as 28 feet above ground. That means recreational drivers could be riding at heights very close to the lines. At high speeds it can be difficult to see the lines in time to stop safely.”

NS Power is especially concerned about deep snow in Cape Breton, but Corra said she anticipates power lines are close to snowy surfaces in the central part of the province as well. No accidents have occurred so far, but NS Power wanted to issue the warning in hopes of preventing dangerous situations. “This is an extraordinary winter,” the utility said.